Coastal Electric bracing for 'probability' of storm

Coastal Electric Cooperative is bracing for the probability of a winter storm, it said in a release Monday afternoon.

From the press release:

We are closely monitoring weather conditions and have a variety of contingency plans in place to address problems associated with snow accumulation, ice forming on tree limbs and power lines which can cause damage and outages to the distribution system.

Our employees and contract crews are preparing trucks with emergency equipment and necessary materials, should the weather become severe.

Our warehouse is stocked with poles, wire, connectors, transformers and other supplies frequently used in the restoration process. Vendors have been contacted to be on standby in case additional materials are needed.

Coastal Electric employees are on a heightened state of readiness and prepared to react immediately to any power outages.

In addition, Coastal Electric encourages customers to make the following preparations as well:

Have non-perishable foods on hand such as canned fruit, powdered milk, peanut butter, bread and crackers.Have a manual can opener.Have blankets, sleeping bags and extra clothes, including hats.Have flashlights, battery-powered lanterns and extra batteries.For those with fireplaces, be sure to have kindling and a good supply of wood.

Coastal Electric spokesman Mark Bolton said, “Like everyone, we’re watching the weather closely and making preparations. Based upon the weather services we use, we don’t expect the conditions along the coast to be as bad as what is being forecast for areas well inland. It is unlikely the forecast snow and sleet accumulations in Coastal’s service territory will be enough to cause widespread power outages. The worst situation for Coastal Electric would be an accumulation of freezing rain on tree limbs followed by a lot of wind. We are talking with regional electrical contractors to reserve crews should they be necessary.

“We will prepare for the worst and hope for the best.”Boltonsaid.

Coastal Electric is the power supplier to 17,000 Members in Bryan, Liberty, Long and McIntosh counties.